Veterans Affairs Guidance Supports Exercise After EMDR Therapy
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs indicates that individuals can generally resume their daily lives, including exercise, after Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. There is no standard rule prohibiting physical activity such as walking, running, gym workouts, or yoga post-EMDR. The primary determinant for engaging in exercise should be how the individual feels after a session. Some may experience fatigue and prefer rest or lighter activities like stretching, while others may feel normal and capable of continuing their usual exercise routines. The guidance emphasizes that exercise does not interfere with the ongoing processing that may occur between EMDR sessions, nor is it a required component for the therapy's effectiveness. Individuals are encouraged to listen to their bodies and adjust their activity levels accordingly, whether that means a full workout, a gentle walk, or complete rest.
